Itanagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday termed the northeast the driving force of the nation’s development and said it has been playing a significant role in India’s growth. "To achieve this energy target, Arunachal Pradesh will contribute significantly as several power plants are now under commissioning in the state," he said. Emphasising that the northeast is close to his heart, Modi recalled that the region had long lagged in development during the Congress regime. The Prime Minister underlined how improved "ease of living", through better healthcare, education and business opportunities, has benefited people across Arunachal Pradesh and the entire Northeast. "These developed border villages of Arunachal Pradesh are now emerging as tourism centres," the Prime Minister stated.